7 Train Rides in Sri Lanka

Exploring Sri Lanka by Train: A Journey Through Scenic Routes

Ready to Explore Sri Lanka‘s Beauty on Rails?

Discover Affordable Train Journeys with Breathtaking Views – Which Route Will Be Your Adventure?

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with greenery scattered all over the island as well as a wealthy history and culture. One of the beauty that cannot be paralleled when visiting the island is by train. Not only are train journeys in Sri Lanka cheap, but they are the most exotic way of traveling through the most picturesque terrains of the country including the misty mountains, green tea estates, and silent sandy beaches. Here, we will be showing you the ideal train journeys for the international visitor and those of you who live here but never thought that a train journey could be an adventure.

1. Kandy to Ella – The Iconic Blue Train Journey

Distance: 7 hours | Scenic Highlights: Tea Plantations, Waterfalls, Mountains

Undoubtedly, the most, or perhaps the only train ride in Sri Lanka that can be compared to this one is the one that goes from Kandy to Ella through breathtaking mountains. This blue train which comes with the association of the British Raj chugs along through tea gardens, over bridges and through tunnels. Tourists get to see drop over the rocks waterfalls and other aspects like extensive greens. The centerpiece of visiting this area is the Nine Arch Bridge in Demodara set up majestically amidst hills.

• Ideal For: Nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil experience.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to April) offers the clearest views.
• Tips: Book a seat in the observation car or ride in third class with open windows to feel more connected with the surroundings.

2. Galle to Colombo – The Southern Coastal Railway Line

Distance: 2.5 hours | Scenic Highlights: Coastal Views, Beaches, Fishing Villages

The Southern Coastal Railway Line is on tracks passing through the beaches along Galle to Colombo making it quite relaxed journey. On this trip, you enjoy scenic sea views, coconut palm trees, fisherman’s boats and culture of the Indian Ocean shore. The ride is enjoyable and offers a more scenic route devoid of many boats, thus perfect for any couple or group intending to grasp a short shore sightseeing along the south coast of Sri Lanka.

• Ideal For: Beach lovers, history enthusiasts (Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site), and those looking for a quick getaway from Colombo.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though the best beach conditions are typically from November to April.
• Tips: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views of the ocean.

3. Colombo to Badulla – A Full Sri Lankan Adventure

Distance: 9-10 hours | Scenic Highlights: Highlands, Rivers, Tea Estates

It passes from the country’s capital of Colombo through highlands and up to the town of Badulla. Just like the Kandy to Ella route, this trip takes most of the same path but goes further inland of Sri Lankan’s central highlands. Passengers are going to feel the difference in altitude and undergo observation of some of the most beautiful areas throughout the country. Train movement through small towns and nearby valleys, and gorges is perhaps one of the adventurous joyful rides to go through.

• Ideal For: Train enthusiasts, adventurers, and those wanting to explore the heart of Sri Lanka.
• Best Time to Visit: The journey is scenic year-round, but the clearest skies are typically from December to April.
• Tips: If you want the full experience, consider splitting the trip with an overnight stay in Kandy or Ella.

4. Nanu Oya to Haputale – Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gem

Distance: 2.5 hours | Scenic Highlights: Misty Mountains, Tea Plantations, and Horton Plains

For those who want to travel to the less-traveled off beaten points in Sri Lanka, the train ride from Nanu Oya station near Nuwara Eliya to Haputale is quite amazing. This short ride provides you excellent view of misty hills, few rural houses, and tea gardens. The climate is rather fresh, and the very atmosphere is rather misty what contributes to the creation of a rather romantic image of the tour. You can also enjoy Horton Plains National Park if you want to or Liptons seat which has views of southern plains of Sri Lanka.

• Ideal For: Nature enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful escape.
• Best Time to Visit: The dry season (December to March) is the most comfortable for exploring the area.
• Tips: Pack warm clothing, as temperatures in this region can be much cooler than in other parts of Sri Lanka.

5. Colombo to Jaffna – Discover the Northern Peninsula

Distance: 6-7 hours | Scenic Highlights: Dry Plains, Salt Pans, Historical Landmarks

For those interested in the scenic experience of touring the northern part of Sri Lanka specifically Colombo to Jaffna by train is a different experience. This road leads one through the physical barrenness of the northern plains, abandoned salt pans and small towns that make up the Northern Province with its unique culture and geographical features. First of all, Jaffna actually itself is a culturally diversity place contains Hindu temples, Dutch colonial buildings, and other archaeological places that would give the visitors more knowledge about Sri Lanka.

• Ideal For: Cultural travelers and history buffs interested in exploring the Tamil culture and history of the northern regions.
• Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cooler and less humid.
• Tips: Plan to explore Jaffna’s attractions, such as the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple and the Jaffna Fort.

6. Puttalam to Colombo – Off the Beaten Path

Distance: 4 hours | Scenic Highlights: Rural Villages, Lagoons, Mangrove Forests

This relatively unknown route from Puttalam to Colombo Backwater gives the glimpse of the coastal lagoons, Mangrove forests and rural side of Sri Lanka. It is not as crowded as the southern or highland routes which makes this route best for those in search for untouched and unique Sri Lanka. Lagoon of Puttalam is one of the most popular destinations for watching birds with a great many of them being migratory.

• Ideal For: Off-the-beaten-path explorers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though migratory bird season (October to March) is a bonus.
• Tips: Consider combining this train journey with a visit to the nearby Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest wildlife reserve.

7. Anuradhapura to Trincomalee – History Meets Beach Paradise

Distance: 3.5 hours | Scenic Highlights: Sacred Sites, Paddy Fields, Coastal Views

This ride begins from the ancient city of Anuradhapura which contains significant Buddhism and ends at the world famous Trincomalee, famous for its beaches and diving. During the traverse, the train, probably passes through flood plains, arable land, rice terrains, and rural communities. Trincomalee also comes with treasures such as the Koneswaram Temple and Fort Frederick, beautiful sandy beaches for snorkeling and watching whales.

• Ideal For: History lovers and beachgoers.
• Best Time to Visit: February to September, during Trincomalee’s dry season.
• Tips: Visit the hot springs in Kanniya or snorkel at Pigeon Island National Park during your stay in Trincomalee.

Useful Tips for Train Travel in Sri Lanka

• Classes of Service: The Sri Lankan trains have; First Class, Second Class and Third Class. First class sometimes has air-conditioned and you are likely to find reserved seats while second and third classes will cost you a lower amount though the third class is even more common and comes with considerably fewer amenities and may even be standing.
• Booking Tickets: Tickets can also be purchased at the ticket counters in the stations or through online www.slowrailway.lk or any private travel agents. For those famous routes, such as Kandy-Ella, it is better to book in advance as for the high demand in the regions or during holidays.
• Local Food: Street-side ministrize usually enters and exits the train and offers local goodies such as vadai, samosas and fruits. It can be such a wonderful opportunity to try some of the local food specialties whenever one is on the move.
• Photography: Sri Lanka’s railway is amazing to photoblog, particularly when crossing through tea fields, bridges, and coastal regions. Keep your camera ready!

Final Thoughts: 7 Train Rides in Sri Lanka

Free use of trains for travelling in Sri Lanka is not all about transport – it is about the process of travelling. If you are an inhabitant of the island or your tourism attraction is similar to the Japanese anime sensation, you must understand that many experiences in the island’s geography and culture are most comfortably experienced from within a train window. The train rides range from the very popular Kandy to Ella journey to the unheard-of routes within the Northern and Eastern parts of the country; these are as real as it gets.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most famous train journey in Sri Lanka?

The Kandy to Ella train ride, also known as the Blue Train, is the most iconic route. It takes you through stunning landscapes, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and the famous Demodara Nine Arch Bridge. 2. What are the best coastal train rides in Sri Lanka?

The Galle to Colombo route along the Southern Coastal Railway Line offers beautiful views of pristine beaches, palm trees, and fishing villages with the Indian Ocean in the background. 3. Can I book train tickets in advance for these scenic routes?

Yes, you can book tickets at train stations or online through Sri Lanka Railways and private travel agencies. For popular routes like Kandy to Ella, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons. 4. Which train journey is ideal for exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage?

The Colombo to Jaffna route is perfect for cultural travelers, offering insights into Tamil culture, as well as historical landmarks like Jaffna Fort and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple. 5. What class of service is available on Sri Lankan trains?

Sri Lankan trains offer three classes: First Class (air-conditioned, reserved seats), Second Class (reserved or unreserved), and Third Class (unreserved and basic). First class provides the most comfort, while Third class offers a more immersive experience. 6. What is the best time to travel on these scenic routes?

The best time depends on the region. For highland routes like Kandy to Ella, the dry season (December to April) offers the clearest views. Coastal routes are enjoyable year-round, with November to April being ideal for beach lovers.

The Kandy to Ella train ride, also known as the Blue Train, is the most iconic route. It takes you through stunning landscapes, including tea plantations, waterfalls, and the famous Demodara Nine Arch Bridge.

The Galle to Colombo route along the Southern Coastal Railway Line offers beautiful views of pristine beaches, palm trees, and fishing villages with the Indian Ocean in the background.

Yes, you can book tickets at train stations or online through Sri Lanka Railways and private travel agencies. For popular routes like Kandy to Ella, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The Colombo to Jaffna route is perfect for cultural travelers, offering insights into Tamil culture, as well as historical landmarks like Jaffna Fort and Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.

Sri Lankan trains offer three classes: First Class (air-conditioned, reserved seats), Second Class (reserved or unreserved), and Third Class (unreserved and basic). First class provides the most comfort, while Third class offers a more immersive experience.

The best time depends on the region. For highland routes like Kandy to Ella, the dry season (December to April) offers the clearest views. Coastal routes are enjoyable year-round, with November to April being ideal for beach lovers.